Posts in Life Lessons
Commissioned Paintings(Series 5 out of 5)
Commissioned Paintings(Series 5 out of 5)

This is the fifth (and final) from a series highlighting my painting inspirations and the process I undergo when beginning a painting. I decided to use this blog as a writing exercise to clarify, even for myself, the questions that come my way about these two topics. With this in mind, I’ve come up with these five “categories” to elaborate on my inspirations, but note there is often some overlap between these categories! And, because I believe each “category” deserves more than just a few sentences of explanation, I will create a separate blog for each topic; this blog covers my “Commissioned” paintings.

Read More
Life LessonsDawn Wintercommissioned paintings, original artwork, Color InspirationsComment
Fascination with Color (Series 4 out of 5)
Fascination with Color (Series 4 out of 5)

I have always been fascinated with color, my memories associated with specific colors and the effects of color on my temperament. For myself, emotions can be conveyed in ways that I often find difficult to express with words… For example, who doesn’t associate specific colors with childhood memories? I will always associate bright orange and yellow with the basement of my childhood home. The yellow and orange shag carpeting, orange wallpaper depicting bar scenes and overhead fluorescent (ugh) lighting…

Read More
Life LessonsDawn WinterColor, Color associations, Inspired By Color, Color Inspirations, MemoriesComment
Capturing Memories Paintings (series 3 of 5)
Capturing Memories Paintings (series 3 of 5)

I find that the process of painting can make me feel as if I am traveling back in time. I naturally associate colors with my surroundings, memories of particular events and am often reminded of past travels and colors associated with specific locations. When painting, I am often influenced by childhood memories and more recent life experiences. My interest in our environment and past recollections often influences my paintings.

Read More
Life LessonsDawn WinterMemories, Art, Color, Color associations, natural enviornmentComment
Current Disposition Paintings (Series 2 of 5)
Current Disposition Paintings (Series 2 of 5)

I find color to be a fascinating subject and it’s probably not a surprise to discover that I believe color can impact our moods and be used to describe our emotions. When my children were younger, I read to them a beautifully illustrated book written by Dr. Seuss called “My Many Colored Days”. (Paintings by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher) Each page describes emotions by color. (i.e. “You’d be surprised how many was I change on different colored days” or “Green Days. Deep deep in the sea. Cool and quiet fish. That’s me.”)

Read More
Life LessonsDawn WinterPainting, Moods, Emotions, commissioned paintings, Dr. SeussComment
Defining my inspiration and process (Series 1 of 5)
Defining my inspiration and process (Series 1 of 5)

Often times, I am asked to share my inspiration and how do I begin a painting. That can be a difficult question to answer succinctly as I find there are several responses to that question. Why? Because there are many factors that can determine not only what my inspiration is, but also the inspiration can affect how I begin a painting. My process “of” painting (my techniques) is fairly consistent. I decided to write about where I find my inspiration and to use this writing exercise to clarify, even for myself, and to share bits about my process. I’ve come up with these 5 “categories” to share insight behind my paintings, but know there is overlap between these categories.

Read More
Life LessonsDawn WinterProcess, Painting, Exploring, Color palette, Canvas, original artworkComment
Persistence...
Persistence...

Amazing what a few days can make in our lives.  Two weeks ago, I was handing over work responsibilities to others for a position that I’d held for several years. My last day was spent finishing last-minute details, laughing with co-workers and embracing the bittersweetness of the occasion. I was comfortable in my surroundings and in a situation where I had answers to other’s questions.

Read More
Life LessonsDawn Wintercreativity acrylics art workshop painting discovery, artComment